Regional Planning Commissions
A Review of Six Regional Planning Commissions
Report Number 97-088
August 1997
Overall Conclusion
The six Regional Planning Commissions (Commissions) reviewed have not fulfilled their statutory responsibilities. The Commissions have not implemented an effective comprehensive planning process, eliminated duplication, or fully promoted economy and efficiency for their respective regions. The Commissions' Governing Boards have not provided effective guidance, and management has not implemented effective management controls for $91.6 million in administration and program expenditures. Inadequate strategic plans exist at 5 of 6 Commissions, and $6.9 million of property and equipment is not safeguarded from loss. The performance management systems do not provide useful information, and basic human resource management processes have not been implemented for $14 million of personnel expenditures. Weaknesses in contract management controls have increased the risk that $66.5 million of funds paid to contractors in fiscal year 1995 were spent on ineffective programs or intentionally misused.
Recommendations
A review of the Commissions' enabling legislation by the Sunset Advisory Commission or a legislative committee should be considered. The review would provide the Legislature with the necessary information to determine the future role of the Commissions. In order for the Sunset Advisory Commission review to occur, legislation applying the Texas Sunset Act to the Commissions would have to be adopted. The review could consider whether the current organizational structure of the Commissions is the most appropriate system to accomplish the program administration responsibilities assigned by state government.
The Commissions' Governing Boards should develop policies to ensure that a long-term, comprehensive planning process for their respective regions complies with all statutory requirements. Management should implement improved controls over strategic planning, asset management, performance management, and human resources. Management should implement controls to improve contractor selection, contract provisions, and contract oversight of service providers.
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